How to make Windows 8 look like Windows 7

If you recently purchased or upgraded a computer to Windows 8, chances are that you’ve probably been wondering a few things about the changes that were made, for instance, “where the start button is?” Many users have complained about some of the changes that were included in the latest release of Windows, but…don’t feel bad, you’re not alone!

The following excerpt is from CNET and it details some really helpful tips and tricks that you can use to put back some of the features that seem to be missing in the latest Microsoft release.

How to make Windows 8 look like Windows 7

Windows 8 is provoking a Marmite-like reaction among users, but that doesn’t mean you’ll fall directly into the love or hate camps. It’s more likely you’ll find certain new features useful and others unnecessary. If you’re pining for features no longer present, this article is for you.

In this how-to guide, I’ll reveal how to water down or ignore some of Windows 8’s more controversial features and restore functionality you thought had gone forever. While these tips aren’t strictly about making Windows 8 like Windows 7, they address a few annoying niggles.

Bypass the Start screen and disable hotspots

When Windows 8 first loads, you’ll notice how it defaults to the new Start screen. If you’d rather go straight to the traditional desktop we all know and love, download a free tool called Skip Metro Suite. Once installed, launch the program and verify ‘Skip Start Screen’ is ticked.

While you’re here, you’ll notice that you can also disable some or all of Windows 8’s hotspots, allowing you to safely roll your mouse into the corners of the screen, without worrying about triggering the charms bar, apps switcher or Start button. They’re all enabled by default, so simply untick those features you wish to keep before clicking Save Settings.

Restore the classic Start menu

The lack of a Start button (never mind Start menu) on the Windows 8 desktop is annoying, but there are plenty of options for getting it back. Stardock’s Start8 costs $4.99 (about £3) for a Windows 8-friendly design. But if you want something more traditional (and free), install the Classic Start Menu portion of Classic Shell instead.

Once installed, you’ll see the Start button appear — click this to open the Settings menu and pick your Start menu design (‘classic’, XP and Vista/7 are all supported). Click OK and your new Start menu is ready to go.

I'm a songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, producer, political activist, web developer and small business owner. I have composed and produced 5 albums.or original music and have performed hundreds of live shows across the country. I also own and operate a computer company, River Net Computers, as well as a web development firm, River Net Creative Industries alongside my brother James.